The Mycenaean

North Carolina State football had a chaotic year with injuries, position changes, and discovering hidden gems.

Despite the team’s chaos, they finished the season with a 9-3 record and ranked 18 in the College Football Playoff poll. Along with their satisfactory record, they placed third in the ACC standings and will play Kansas State in the Pop-Tarts bowl.

Some of their notable wins include a 24-17 victory over Clemson, a 20-6 win over Miami, and a 39-20 rivalry win over UNC Chapel Hill.

“My favorite win is against Clemson. Beating UNC is always the goal in the season, but beating up on Clemson, who usually embarrasses us, was by far my favorite win this year,” said Avery Morton, junior and NCSU football fan.

The Wolfpack has a promising future with freshman star receiver, Kevin Concepcion. This season, Concepcion accumulated 767 receiving yards, 297 rushing yards, and 11 total touchdowns.

“I think Concepcion has a real future not only in college, but in the NFL. He’s got good speed and athleticism, and his routes are close to perfect,” said Morton.

Payton Wilson, a linebacker, is another star of the team. This season, Wilson had 69 solo tackles, 6 sacks, 1 forced fumble, and 3 interceptions. Since Wilson is a senior, he is declaring for the 2024 NFL draft. He is ranked as the 100th-best player in his draft class and ranked 6th in his position.

“As far as Payton Wilson goes, his ability to read defenses is very rare to see in college. Not only is he a leader on the field but off the field is a terrific leader seen picking up his teammates who struggle,” said Morton.

As for injuries, the Wolfpack have two players listed on the injury report. Jakeen Harris, safety, has been out for the season due to a pectoral injury.

MJ Morris, quarterback, elected to redshirt midway through the season. Lastly, Rakeim Ashford, safety, has been out for the season due to recovering from a knee injury.

With a successful 2023 football season, the Wolfpack are hunting for an ACC championship title next year with their returning stars and incoming freshmen class.